Yield Loss Prediction Tool for Asian Soybean Rust - Continuation for Model Validation

The objective of this proposal is to develop a risk management tool to help producers decide how to better manage Asian soybean rust. Specifically, this project shall lead to the development of an interactive internet site which will use field-specific information to calculate potential yield loss from soybean rust. During the progress of the development of this yield loss prediction tool, research activities have led to the finding that the yield loss prediction model must take into account disease parameters, specifically the impact of the disease lesions. The initial model proposed was based on the assumption that the disease caused reduction in yield due to defoliation injury alone. The partner is now developing a model that uses both defoliation injury and lesions on the intact plant as contributing factors to yield loss. The addition ofthe second model coefficient now means that there is a need to assess the model coefficients and the predictive capacity ofthe model in an environment where the disease is present and causes yield loss. This will be done in the model validation work in Quincy, Florida. The North Florida research and education center of the University of Florida in Quincy, Florida has become the central location for soybean rust research in the United States since they have experienced rust since the first identification of the disease in 2004. The facility is well equipped and hosts a number of researchers across the United States including researchers from USDA, land grant universities and private companies. Dr. David Wright from University of Florida at Quincy has agreed to manage our trial there.